During challenging times it can be so easy to cascade into a downward spiral of thoughts and emotions without even noticing it. Whether it's the economy or a disappointment at work, a stressful relationship or a "less-than-perfect" body, a negative domino effect can happen in short order when you look at any situation through the wrong lens.
And, since your body is right there with you 24/7, it's one of the easiest targets for unproductive thinking. A tight-fitting pair of jeans or an upcoming reunion can bring about a vivid mental display of every extra bite of food you've ever taken when you didn't really need it, and every workout foregone in favor of an extra hour of sleep.
That's why I love the practice of focusing on the "positive aspects" about just about anything--my day, my relationships, my life in general, and (yes) my body. When I identify that first thought that could start a spiral--like how my midsection seems to be more like a maxsection as of late--I do my best to stop right there and choose a more productive thought. That's the midsection that carried my two children. For that, I'm grateful. That's the midsection that 2 inches healthier in size than it was two months ago, effectively reducing my cardiac risk. For that, I'm also grateful. And, it's the midsection that can feel the warmth of another person in the warm embrace of a hug. For that, I'm once again grateful.
Even when things aren't ideal, a cascade of positive aspects helps me focus on what is good and gratitude-worthy right here and now. When I head in that direction, rather than the direction of negativity and self-loathing, it's not only a lot more pleasant but also a lot more productive in setting the stage to experience more of what I DO want rather than what I DON'T want.
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